Hazardous substances
Asbestos
Asbestos was extensively used as a building material in the UK from the 1950s through to the mid-1980s.
It was used for a variety of purposes and was ideal for fireproofing and insulation.
Any building built before 2000 (houses, factories, offices, schools, hospitals etc) can contain asbestos.
Asbestos materials in good condition are safe unless asbestos fibres become airborne, which happens when materials are damaged.
Asbestosis
Most people are exposed to low amounts of asbestos present in the atmosphere with no ill effects.
Asbestos fibres and dust are potentially very dangerous if inhaled in higher concentrations over a period of time, when they can cause serious lung diseases including cancer.
The symptoms of these diseases often do not appear for between 20 -30 years after exposure to asbestos.
- If you suspect that you are living with asbestos:
- Don't panic and leave asbestos alone, it's safe unless it's damaged or disturbed.
- Never sand, drill or saw asbestos materials
- Always seek professional advice before thinking of removing asbestos materials.
- Do not attempt to remove asbestos lagging, spray coatings or insulation board by yourself. These materials can only be safely removed by a licensed contractor.
- Sometimes it will be necessary to take a sample, for example to identify the type of asbestos. Only employ a suitably trained person to sample or do a survey of the premises.
